- Malicious links surged by 133% in Q1 and 53% in Q2 2024.
- AI-driven scams are increasingly targeting both businesses and consumers.
- Small businesses face more than twice the cyber threats compared to large enterprises.
Malicious links surge in 2024
Messaging attacks have evolved significantly in 2024, with hackers increasingly favouring malicious links over traditional malware to deliver their payloads. Mimecast reported a dramatic 133% increase in malicious links in Q1 2024 and a further 53% rise in Q2 compared to the same period in 2023. These attacks often involve multiple layers of false information, making it more difficult for victims to identify the threat.
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AI-Enabled scams target both businesses and consumers
AI-driven attacks are becoming more prevalent, with attackers using generative AI to create convincing phishing templates. In a notable case, corporate employees received 380,000 emails containing a PDF that, when opened, led to a web page hosted by an AI development service. This type of AI-enabled scam is not only affecting businesses but also consumers, with attackers sending mass emails via Microsoft distribution lists to bypass security checks and prompt recipients to interact with AI bot call centres.
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Small businesses under increased threat
Small businesses remain the primary targets for cyber threats, experiencing significantly higher volumes of attacks compared to larger enterprises. Mimecast found that threats per user (TPU) peaked at 40 for small businesses in Q1 2024, with these employees facing more than twice the number of threats compared to those at large enterprises. Despite a decline in average TPU across all businesses, small businesses continue to be disproportionately affected by cyber threats.
About Mimecast
Mimecast is a leading AI-powered, API-enabled Human Risk Management platform designed to shield organisations from diverse cyber threats. By combining advanced technology with human-focused strategies, we enhance visibility and provide insights that enable decisive actions to protect collaborative environments and critical data. Trusted by over 42,000 businesses worldwide, Mimecast empowers companies to proactively engage employees in reducing risk and boosting productivity. Our platform offers more visibility, insight, agility, and security, ensuring organisations stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.
